Related videos:
The Cuban regime declared a paid work break for next Friday, May 2, in recognition of the "resilience of the people" in the face of the current energy crisis.
The measure, announced through Decree 126/2025 by the Council of Ministers and published in the Official Gazette extraordinary number 15, is signed by Prime Minister Manuel Marrero Cruz.
"In recognition of the resilience of our people, who have faced adverse situations and demonstrated their capacity for endurance, fulfilling their tasks with great effort while taking into account the energy situation the country is facing, it has been decided to grant a work recess on May 2, 2025," the official text states.
The provision is based on Article 100 of the Labor Code (Law 116), which authorizes the Government to establish labor exceptions in special contexts.
Cubans spend over 20 hours a day in blackout, and if they protest, they can be imprisoned; yet the regime claims to reward them with a holiday.
The Minister of Labor and Social Security will be responsible for implementing the complementary regulatory provisions that ensure compliance with this measure.
The recess period takes place right after the May Day parade, which this year resumes its massive celebration in the Plaza de la Revolución in Havana and in other cities across the country.
The commemoration of International Workers' Day will be dedicated by the regime to the 25th anniversary of the reading of the concept of Revolution by dictator Fidel Castro.
Days earlier, the General Secretary of the Central Workers' Union of Cuba (CTC), Ulises Guilarte de Nacimiento, had called for a national mobilization.
However, activists on social media have called on the public not to attend a march that legitimizes a regime "that violates the freedoms and fundamental rights of Cubans" and is unable to resolve the energy crisis, they argue.
The Public Health sector will lead the march in response to government accusations regarding the collapse of the sector, illustrated by cases such as that of the child Damir Ortiz, who, after several years of unsuccessful treatments, had to be transferred to Miami for care and ultimately passed away.
Frequently Asked Questions about Work Leave in Cuba Due to the Energy Crisis
Why did the Cuban government declare a work stoppage on May 2, 2025?
The Cuban government declared a work break on May 2, 2025 to acknowledge the resilience of the people in the face of the current energy crisis and to relieve the pressure on the national electrical system. This measure also aims to highlight the daily efforts of Cuban workers amid the challenges the country is facing.
How is the labor break related to the May Day parade?
The labor break occurs right after the May Day parade, which resumes its large-scale celebration in the Plaza de la Revolución in Havana and other cities across the country. This event, promoted as a demonstration of unity and resilience, will be followed by a paid day off for workers.
What does Decree 126/2025 mention about the work break in Cuba?
The Decree 126/2025 of the Council of Ministers establishes paid leave on May 2, 2025, based on Article 100 of the Labor Code (Law 116). This provision is recognized as a labor exception in special contexts, specifically due to the energy crisis affecting the country.
What is the current energy context in Cuba that led to the declaration of this recess?
Cuba is experiencing a severe energy crisis that has resulted in prolonged blackouts, fuel shortages, and a collapsed national electrical system. This situation has prompted the government to implement measures such as work recesses to reduce electricity consumption and relieve the burden on the system.
Filed under: